Fraud targeting online shoppers and holiday donors continues to surge nationwide, according to a new report from the AARP Fraud Watch Network. As millions prepare to shop and give online this season, scammers are capitalizing on fake shipping alerts, bogus charities, and gift card scams to steal money and personal information.
The 2025 AARP Holiday Shopping and Scams Report reveals that 89 percent of U.S. adults have experienced at least one scam, from fake toll payment texts and phony charity appeals to misleading digital ads. More than half of adults reported receiving a fake shipping notice this year, while nearly four in ten encountered deceptive ads on social media.
“Criminals are relentless during the holidays, exploiting the many opportunities that come with a busy season — from shopping and traveling to charitable giving,” said Laura McDonough, Associate State Director of Communication at AARP Vermont. “Understanding how they operate is the first step toward protecting yourself and your loved ones.”